Wanted: Science advisor for British spy agency

If it hadn't been for Q Branch, James Bond would have been dead long ago. But can any of New Scientist's readers fill the boots of the real-life Q?

While Bond and Q work for Britain's secret intelligence service MI6, the security service, MI5, wants in on the act. It is currently recruiting a chief scientific adviser to co-ordinate how science and technology are used across its branches.

The job is being advertised on MI5's website, and specifies that the candidate should be of a high academic standing – probably an FRS or FREng – have demonstrated management skills at a senior level in a medium-to-large organisation, and ideally have experience of working within a complex government environment.

The post will take up two or three days a week, and will last 3-5 years.

"It could be a scientist or an engineer, and they're open-minded about what areas of scientific expertise a person has," says a spokesman for the UK Department of Innovation, Universities and Skills, which supports evidence-based policy making across government.

Listening in

However, recruitment consultants Egon Zehnder International, who are advertising the role, say that expertise in at least one of: physics, chemistry, acoustics, optics, materials science, radiofrequency technologies, communications, telephony and data mining would be an advantage – suggesting that developing cutting-edge of surveillance technology is one of MI5's goals.

"I think it's unlikely the candidate will be required to create a new weapons system for the latest Aston Martin," John Beddington, the government's chief scientific adviser told the BBC. "Nevertheless there is a really important role in providing scientific and technological advice that agents working in the field will address."

As for the type of person that will fit in at MI5, Egon Zehnder International offers the following advice: "To get things done in the Security Service, individuals need to be pragmatic and results oriented – credibility comes through delivery and an ability to build good working relationships. The incumbent will be looked on as a role model for thought leadership and integrity and will live by the values of the Security Service."

Discretion is also essential, as applicants are told they should only discuss their application with a close partner or immediate family. Applications close on 24 April.

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